If we come to Italy for 5 months, from February through June, can we actually place our children into a public school? Say in Florence?

What about the fact that they don't know Italian? (They do know a bit of French and were in a French immersion preschool and French immersion school in the US.)

(I was thinking about home schooling them, but the interactions with other children would be nice.

Also, I am concerned about isolation if we rent in the country, and I hate having to rent a car, so any ideas on where we might live, would be good.

We love Florence and Umbria and Rome, but are considering areas that are less expensive.

Topic moved to the education forum. A.T.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: AliceTwain,

Whether it is the right thing to do for your kids I don't know, but if you are a kid and you are in Italy, the school is yours. Foreign kids also by law get extra help to understand the lessons and learn Italian.
Houses like you seek are available around me for €750 to 1000, but not usually for just 5 months. Any individual might decide to do it, however.
Property prices are sky high, but rentals just aren't.

You can do short term rentals in Florence, but it is pricey compared to renting over the longer term. We have been renting our current place for 3 months at 1900euros/month. It is right in the centre on Piazza Pitti, but the rent isn't that unusual because short term will also be furnished. This is 2 bedroom, proper kitchen and large sitting room and dining room so it is livable, but there is no light or view of any kind.

I should have been clearer - we are only in this apartment for 3 months and move somewhere more permanent end of January.

In my town there are a lot of parents who have their kids in school for only half the year. They stay for the season the go abroad for the winter and enroll the kids in different schools. I'd say go for it, it will be a great experience for your kids.